Spain Small Group Trips

Loved everything about this trip. Tour guide Juan-Jose organised everything so well and also took the time to socialise with us during his free time which helped the bond as a group. Scenery was beautiful and the walking was about the level I expected - no walk was particularly challenging in itself but over the week as a whole, the cumulative effect probably put it on the harder end of the moderate scale. If people wanted to miss a day out, that was not a problem (which is the benefit of a centre-based trip). We were very lucky with the weather in late-October - but can't guarantee that every time!

I've wanted to visit Andalucia for more than 20 years and this trip did not disappoint. It was, to me, the perfect blend of rural walking and city time- with my favorite moments being the pastures and small villages, learning about olive production, local plants, and life in Algamitas. The Cortijo is lovely, and though simple, had everything we need (including a pool!) The staff were all incredibly friendly and helpful and Felipe, the manager, was especially thoughtful in taking care of everyone. My traveling companion and I both have dietary/medical restrictions and Felipe and the wonderful kitchen staff went to great lengths to ensure we had what we needed (we know gluten free pasta, bread and cereal can't be easy to come by in a rural area, and that making a separate version of a meal is a lot of work), but made it seem effortless. Our guide, Miguel, is funny and personable and knows so much about the area: archaeology, geology, plant life, birds, and people- and he clearly makes a great effort to know the neighbors in the village and connect with people. He also runs a tight ship to keep people safe and cared for! He also goes to great lengths to make sure his groups have a great time and get to do the things they want to do. I thought the walking was the right challenge for a level 2- the biggest variable was the sun and heat, but he made sure we were hydrated and prepared. We didn't have any rain, but that would also make for a different kind of challenge. And we lucked out with a group of lovely, funny, caring fellow-travelers. This trip was to celebrate my friends' and my 40th birthdays this year, and it was exactly what we wanted it to be!

It was a wonderful experience and, as described, a full-on week of travel and sightseeing, but broken up with a two night stay in Craig’s village with two walks through the beautiful countryside. That stay in the small village was really special as was Craig’s guiding. His knowledge of the area and Andalucia’s turbulent history specific to Granada, Cordoba and Seville was exceptional. His energy, insight and humour really helped gell our group - a great holiday.

My 4th trip with Exodus, and one that I would highly recommend. A lovely mix of coastal, inland and mountain walks. Contrasting accommodations: a coastal hotel in Soller and mountain monastery retreat at Lluc. Great local food, lovely group.

Firstly, I will start with a disclaimer I would like to stay in touch with our guide Malina as a friend. While I was walking the Camino she was a true friend to me. She always had best interests of everyone on the tour at heart. I valued her honest council on the walk and will continue to value it through life. My previous review mentioned how much I appreciated the guide and the taxi being there to meet me at the airport. On this occasion neither was there. The guide was out to dinner with the group. The taxi driver left after 1.5 hours. (There was a long delay in collecting our luggage) . Malina left me a whatsapp message which I was unable to access due to no internet connection on my phone. I was able to get an internet connection on a different device and checked the explore itinerary to get the name of the hotel. I then got a taxi to the hotel. When I phoned explore I was told that both the hotel name and address as well as an emergency number are in the final confirmation email. I would highly recommend writing both down before you leave home. I would say the main reason for having a guide is not to point out all the interesting things and the great views but to prevent things going wrong and to deal with them when they do. I successfully walked the Camino last year, ok I had a few blisters but still completed it. It was difficult for me to accept that I would have to do shorter walks this year because of blisters and the heat. But Malina was correct. She took a difficult decision with my best interest at heart to ensure that I not only enjoyed my holiday but also returned home without any health issues. Instead of walking in the heat which was difficult for me I got the opportunity to fully experience the excellent hotels and interesting places on the journey. Which Camino was best I cannot really answer that question. In both cases I was in groups made up of wonderful people with guides who went the extra mile to ensure that everyone had a great holiday. I had two different holidays the first was walking place to place mainly enjoying the journey in the second I had more time to experience the destination. The main thing that both had in common was the camaraderie of the Camino.

This was a really enjoyable trip. My e-bike was the best I've ever had (thanks Miguel!) and ideal for the terrain. The scenery was interesting and varied, we cycled on mainly quiet roads and tracks, and it was great to be away from tourist hotspots. I can't speak too highly of Miguel. He's a lovely guy, very well organised while making it all look easy, and he did all he could to make our trip a safe and enjoyable one. He worked hard to make sure we all had a good time and took us to some fantastic restaurants where the food was delicious and excellent value. The area has an interesting history and I thought the balance was just right between hearing about it without feeling overburdened with information. 100% recommend!